The Sound of Evolution
Isotretinoin
Mechanism of action:
Isotretinoin is a 13-cis-retinoic acid derivative. After entering the body, it is converted intracellularly into several active retinoic acid forms, including all-trans-retinoic acid and 9-cis-retinoic acid. These active retinoic acids enter the nucleus and bind to retinoic acid receptors and retinoid X receptors, suppressing the expression of genes involved in lipid synthesis and thereby reducing the lipid-producing capacity of sebaceous cells.
Reference(s):
1. Khoo KC et al. (1982). Pharmacokinetics of isotretinoin following a single oral dose. J Clin Pharmacol.
2. Miastkowska M et al. (2016). The kinetic study of isotretinoin release from nanoemulsion. Colloids Surf A Physicochem Eng Asp.
3. Vane FM et al. (1981). Identification of 4-oxo-13-cis-retinoic acid as the major metabolite of 13-cis-retinoic acid in human blood. Drug Metab Dispos.